A Flavorful Taste of South Africa: Irresistible Oxtail Recipe

If you’re looking to indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of South African cuisine, then you’re in for a treat. Oxtail stew, a beloved dish in South Africa, is a tantalizing blend of tender meat, hearty vegetables, and an assortment of spices. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating an authentic and mouthwatering South African oxtail dish that will impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients

Before embarking on your culinary journey, ensure that you have the following ingredients ready:

• 3-4 pounds oxtail, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create an irresistible South African oxtail stew:

1. Pat the oxtail dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the oxtail in batches until deeply golden on all sides. Set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for another minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
5. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Return the oxtail to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Bring the stew to a simmer.
7. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the oxtail simmer for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
8. Once the oxtail is cooked, skim off any excess fat from the surface of the stew.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! After browning the oxtail and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is tender.

Q: What can I serve with South African oxtail stew?

A: This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, creamy polenta, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?

A: Yes, the flavors of the oxtail stew develop beautifully when it’s made ahead of time. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before serving, and it will taste even better the next day!